Causes of World War II

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Questions and Answers

How did the failure of disarmament contribute to the outbreak of World War II?

The failure of disarmament led to an arms race among European countries, increasing tensions. Germany, feeling unfairly treated, defied disarmament efforts and began rearming, further destabilizing the region.

What was the significance of the Abyssinian Crisis in exposing the weaknesses of the League of Nations?

The Abyssinian Crisis demonstrated the League's ineffectiveness as it failed to prevent Italy's aggression against Abyssinia. The League's inability to enforce sanctions or take decisive action undermined its credibility and encouraged further aggression by other nations.

Explain how economic nationalism, as a result of the Great Depression, contributed to the rise of authoritarian regimes like Nazi Germany.

Economic nationalism, a consequence of the Great Depression, prompted countries to prioritize their own economic interests, leading to protectionist policies and competitive trade practices. This fostered an environment conducive to the rise of authoritarian regimes that promised economic stability and national revival.

How did Hitler exploit the Treaty of Versailles to advance his aggressive foreign policy in the 1930s?

Hitler exploited the resentment and grievances stemming from the Treaty of Versailles to justify his aggressive foreign policy. He portrayed Germany as a victim of the treaty and used its provisions as pretext for rearmament, territorial expansion, and violations of international agreements. Signup and view all the answers

What was the strategic significance of the Nazi-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact for Germany's invasion of Poland?

The Nazi-Soviet Non-Aggression Pact eliminated the threat of a two-front war for Germany, allowing it to concentrate its forces on invading Poland. It also ensured that the Soviet Union would not intervene to defend Poland, thus facilitating Germany's aggression. Signup and view all the answers

How did the policy of appeasement contribute to Germany's growing confidence and power leading up to World War II?

The policy of appeasement emboldened Hitler and strengthened Germany's position. By repeatedly conceding to Hitler's demands, Britain and France signaled a lack of resolve, encouraging him to take further risks and pursue more aggressive actions. Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the remilitarization of the Rhineland in 1936, and how did it reveal the weaknesses of the League of Nations?

The remilitarization of the Rhineland was significant because it violated the Treaty of Versailles and demonstrated Germany's defiance of international agreements. The League of Nations' failure to respond effectively exposed its inability to enforce its decisions and deter aggression. Signup and view all the answers

How did the Anschluss with Austria in 1938 contribute to Germany's strategic position in Europe?

The Anschluss with Austria significantly enhanced Germany's strategic position by expanding its territory, resources, and population. It also provided Germany with greater access to Central and Southeastern Europe, facilitating further expansionist ambitions. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how the Munich Agreement of 1938 exemplified the policy of appeasement and its consequences for Czechoslovakia.

The Munich Agreement exemplifies appeasement by ceding the Sudetenland region of Czechoslovakia to Nazi Germany in exchange for Hitler's promise of peace. This decision led to the dismemberment of Czechoslovakia, undermining its sovereignty and leaving it vulnerable to further aggression. Signup and view all the answers

In what ways did the ineffectiveness of the League of Nations contribute to the outbreak of World War II in both Europe and the Asia-Pacific region?

The League's ineffectiveness to address aggression in both Europe and Asia-Pacific undermined international security and encouraged expansionist policies. The absence of a strong international body to enforce peace allowed aggressor nations to act with impunity, contributing significantly to the outbreak of World War II. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Appeasement

A policy of making concessions to an aggressor to avoid conflict.

Theatres of war

Areas where battles and significant conflicts of a war occur.